The memorial service for the late Presley Chweneyagae, a beloved South African actor and cultural icon, was marked by an emotional tribute from fellow actor Thabiso Ramotshela that deeply touched everyone in attendance.

Ramotshela’s speech not only honored the legacy of Chweneyagae but also shed light on the struggles faced by actors in South Africa, evoking tears and heartfelt applause from the audience.

Thabiso Ramotshela began his tribute by recalling the moment he received the devastating news of Presley Chweneyagae’s passing.

“I remember the first time I got the call. It was so hard for the person to tell me, like, ‘Yo, bro, what?’ I’m like, ‘What’s up?’ And then they said, ‘Bro, he’s dead,’” Ramotshela shared, his voice heavy with emotion.

The rawness of that moment set the tone for his heartfelt speech.

 

Ramotshela described Presley not just as a colleague but as a father figure who had profoundly impacted his life.

“As much as he was not my father, he’s my dad, man. That man raised me. That man took care of me,” he said.

He recalled how Presley would check on him during difficult times on set, offering words of encouragement and support.

“He would call me and say, ‘Boy, boy, I know I don’t express myself a lot, but I got you. I got you.’”

This personal connection underscored the deep bond forged between the two actors over years of working together.

Ramotshela’s words resonated with many who understood that in the world of acting, colleagues often become like family.

 

Ramotshela expressed the profound pain and unfairness of losing Presley at such a young age.

“It hurts so much because we all gathered here to celebrate the life of a leader during these difficult times,” he said.

He reflected on the cruel unpredictability of death, emphasizing that Presley was full of life and vitality.

 

“For four to five years, I worked with Presley from the age of 16. The thought of not being able to see him again, to appear on my TV screen, to call him, or just bump into him at random places—my heart sinks,” Ramotshela confessed.

His words brought tears to many in the audience, highlighting the deep sense of loss felt by those who knew Presley personally and professionally.

Despite the sadness, Ramotshela celebrated Presley’s legacy as a legend who brought international acclaim to South Africa.

“As much as a leader has fallen, a legend was born,” he said.

He reminded the audience of Presley’s historic achievement in winning an Oscar, a milestone that inspired many young actors, including himself.

 

“The reason why I’m so hard on myself is because of that man. All I wanted was his approval at my work,” Ramotshela revealed.

He shared that Presley had admired and closely watched his career, which added a layer of motivation and pressure to his own journey.

 

Ramotshela’s speech took a poignant turn as he addressed the harsh realities faced by actors in South Africa.

He spoke candidly about the demanding nature of the profession, where actors often work almost every day, sometimes five times a week, leaving little room for personal time.

“It doesn’t feel like work anymore. It doesn’t feel like you’re my colleague. You are my father, my mother, my sister,” Ramotshela said, describing the close-knit relationships formed on set.

He explained that even when actors are off duty, they might be called back to cover for absent colleagues, highlighting the relentless pace of their work.

 

More importantly, Ramotshela drew attention to the financial struggles many actors endure despite their constant work.

“The money they get is not money. It is not money at all,” he stressed.

He lamented that many celebrities suffer financially, often relying on donations when they fall ill and unable to afford private healthcare.

 

Ramotshela’s speech echoed a recurring theme heard at many memorials and funerals of South African artists: the urgent need for better pay and working conditions.

He voiced frustration that despite repeated calls for change, the situation remains stagnant.

“We can’t be living like this. We can’t be earning like this,” he said, reflecting the sentiments shared by many in the industry.

He noted that even at Presley’s memorial, actors spoke out about being underpaid and overworked, yet no meaningful change seems forthcoming.

 

This candid critique underscored the systemic challenges facing the South African entertainment industry, where talent often outshines financial reward.

Ramotshela’s words served as both a tribute to Presley and a rallying cry for reform.

 

By sharing his personal grief and professional insights, Ramotshela honored Presley Chweneyagae’s memory in a way that transcended mere eulogy.

He highlighted the need to recognize and support the artists who contribute so much to South African culture, often at great personal cost.

 

His speech reminded attendees and viewers alike that behind the glamour and fame are individuals who deserve dignity, respect, and fair compensation.

Ramotshela’s heartfelt delivery, combined with the emotional weight of his message, made his tribute one of the most memorable moments of the memorial service.

 

The memorial service and Ramotshela’s speech have sparked conversations within the South African acting community and beyond.

Many have expressed solidarity with his call for better working conditions and support for artists.

 

His words have also resonated with fans who now see their favorite actors in a new light—as hardworking individuals facing real struggles.

This increased awareness may lead to greater advocacy and support for the arts sector in South Africa.

Thabiso Ramotshela’s speech at Presley Chweneyagae’s memorial was a powerful and emotional tribute that moved many to tears.

By sharing his personal loss, celebrating Presley’s legacy, and candidly addressing the challenges faced by actors in South Africa, Ramotshela gave voice to a collective grief and a call for change.

 

As South Africa mourns the loss of one of its brightest stars, Ramotshela’s words remind us all of the human stories behind the screen and the urgent need to support and uplift the artists who enrich our culture and society.

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